Japanese footballer (born 1997)
Ryo Shimazaki (島崎 竜, Shimazaki Ryō, born 19 April 1997) is a Japanese former professional footballer who played as a defender.
Career
Youth
Shimazaki spent eight years with the Kawasaki Frontale academy.[1]
College & MLS SuperDraft
Shimazaki opted to move to the United States to play college soccer at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2016, where he played for four years, making a total of 69 appearances, scoring seven goals and tallying six assists for the Rams.[2]
While at college, Shimazaki appeared for USL League Two sides Portland Timbers U23s in 2018,[3] and with Tormenta FC 2 in 2019.[4]
On 13 January 2020, Shimazaki was selected 59th overall in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft by Columbus Crew SC.[5]
Professional
On 16 January 2020, Shimazaki joined New England Revolution II ahead of the 2020 season.[6] He made his professional debut on 25 July 2020, appearing as a half-time substitute against Union Omaha.[7] He scored his first goal on 26 August 2020, scoring the game's only goal in a 1–0 win over Greenville Triumph.[8] Shimazaki's contract option was declined by New England on 30 November 2020.[9]
On 29 August 2021, Shimozaki announced his retirement from professional soccer.[10]
International
Shimazaki has represented Japan at under-16 and under-17 level.[1]
References
External links